We are here to help victims of crime heal through advocacy and education. Our services are free and confidential.
Start your journey by calling our 24 hour crisis hotline: 1-866-644-2882
Caring, professional staff is available 24 hours per day, seven days per week to respond to emergency needs of crime victims and witnesses, answer questions, and provide support.
The Center for Victims services all crime victims in Allegheny County through free services that will help you heal at your own pace. Whether you're a victim of assault, abuse, or gun violence - our care team will help you every step of the way through your healing journey. Please call our 24 hour crisis hotline to understand how the Center for Victims can best help you.
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Center for Victims
Victim Services
As a crime victim in Pennsylvania, you have rights. Our victim services start the moment a crime occurs.
Not only do victims suffer the traumatic impact of violence and crime, but often must face a frightening and complicated judicial system. With our advocates' support, victims can be empowered to better cope with the challenges that lay ahead.
Crimes Against Persons
General Crime Victim Services provides crucial support and resources for individuals who have been affected by crime. These services offer emotional support, counseling, and practical assistance, helping victims navigate the aftermath of a crime and rebuild their lives.
They aim to empower survivors, help them navigate the legal system, and provide resources for rebuilding their lives. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term recovery, these services work to create a safer environment and promote healing for those impacted by domestic violence.
These services include crisis counseling, medical care, legal advocacy, and emotional support. They help survivors navigate the aftermath of an assault, offering confidential assistance and resources for both immediate needs and long-term recovery.
The role for the Canine Advocate and handler is to support the victim throughout legal and therapeutic processes to decrease stress and anxiety in the victim or witness as a means of minimizing the negative impact of traumatic events.
Research shows that when children are physically connected and in the presence of dogs, a shift in brain chemistry occurs.
Specifically, oxytocin, a neurotransmitter and hormone that is known to lower stress, increase ease of connection with others and promote a greater sense of safety and wellbeing, has been shown to significantly increase when a child is in the company of a dog and continue at that increased level for some time following the interaction.
